Tag Archives: local

Years ago you would be able to find curbside stands along portions of 2nd, 4th, 7th and 9th Streets. Today, the little section on South 9th Street is what we have coined the ‘Italian Market‘. Even so, only half of the 160 stands are currently occupied. Restrictions on what and who can sell have remained in tact for years by the city of Philadelphia.

Finally a shed of light! Last month, a new legislation passed by City Council would transfer the management and rental duties from the city over to the South 9th Street Business Association. The overall look of 9th street wouldn’t change much, but who could rent and what could be sold will bring more diversity, youth and money. The wheeled curbside carts will remain a requirement to these street vendors.

Vendors who currently own carts will be able to keep them while restrictions on the limit you may own has been lifted. The annual rent per stand will remain the same at $300 per year. Applications will be reviewed by a volunteer committee and determined on variety and quality. They will be viewed on a first come- first serve basis.

This change hopes to vitalize South Philadelphia and the Italian Market and how our community can thrive with local goods. If the Italian Market starts booming with craft and art vendors, you’ll find me there on the weekends. I mean what’s better than handmade art and fresh pasta?!